Table of Contents
  1. What to Pack for Everest Base Camp Trek?
  2. How to Use This Packing List?
  3. Packing Weight and Bag Limits
  4. Gear Provided If Needed
  5. What to Carry in Your Daypack?
  6. What to Pack in Your Duffle Bag?
  7. Breadown of EBC Packing List
  8. Renting or Buying Gear in Kathmandu
  9. Buying Gear in Kathmandu
  10. Laundry on the Everest Base Camp Trek
  11. Seasonal Packing Guide
    • Spring: March, April, May
    • Autumn: September, October, November
    • Winter: December, January, February
    • Monsoon: June, July, August
  12. What Not to Pack
  13. Common Packing Mistakes
  14. FAQs
Table of Contents
  1. What to Pack for Everest Base Camp Trek?
  2. How to Use This Packing List?
  3. Packing Weight and Bag Limits
  4. Gear Provided If Needed
  5. What to Carry in Your Daypack?
  6. What to Pack in Your Duffle Bag?
  7. Breadown of EBC Packing List
  8. Renting or Buying Gear in Kathmandu
  9. Buying Gear in Kathmandu
  10. Laundry on the Everest Base Camp Trek
  11. Seasonal Packing Guide
    • Spring: March, April, May
    • Autumn: September, October, November
    • Winter: December, January, February
    • Monsoon: June, July, August
  12. What Not to Pack
  13. Common Packing Mistakes
  14. FAQs

Everest Base Camp Trek Packing Checklist

The Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List is a complete travel guide packing checklist for trekkers preparing for a classic trek to Everest Base Camp. It includes the essential clothing, trekking gear, footwear, toiletries, first aid items, documents, electronics, snacks, and seasonal items needed for the journey.

What to Pack for Everest Base Camp Trek?

Here is a quick packing list for trekkers.

CategoryItems to Pack
Head and faceSun hat, beanie, buff, headlamp, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, face wipes
Upper bodyMoisture-wicking shirts, thermal base layer, fleece jacket, down jacket, waterproof jacket, raincoat
HandsLiner gloves, insulated gloves or mittens, waterproof gloves
Lower bodyTrekking pants, thermal leggings, insulated pants, waterproof trousers, lodge pants
FootwearHiking boots, wool socks, liner socks, sandals, gaiters
BagsDuffle bag, daypack, rain cover, dry bags, Ziplock bags
Sleeping gearSleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, pillowcase, earplugs
ToiletriesSoap, toothbrush, toothpaste, towel, wet wipes, sanitiser, toilet paper
First aidBand-aids, blister pads, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, personal medicine
HydrationWater bottles, hydration bladder, purification tablets or filter
ElectronicsPhone, camera, power bank, charging plug, adapter, headlamp batteries
DocumentsPassport copies, visa copies, insurance, permits, passport photos, and cash
SnacksEnergy bars, nuts, trail mix, chocolate, electrolyte sachets

Ready for Your Everest Base Camp Trip? Download Checklist

How to Use This Packing List?

Your gear is normally divided into two bags:

BagCarried ByPurpose
DaypackYouDaily essentials needed while walking
Duffle bag/RucksackPorterMain clothing, sleeping gear, and spare items

You may not be able to access your duffel bag during the walking day. Keep important items such as medicine, water, rain gear, sunscreen, documents, snacks, and electronics in your daypack.

Packing Weight and Bag Limits

Pack light. Weight limits are important for flights, porters, and comfort on the trail.

General packing guideline for one trekker:

Day BagSuggested Weight
Main duffle bag/Rucksack9 kg
DaypackAround 5 kg or less

Note: one porter is shared between two trekkers and carries only one combined bag, either a duffel bag or a rucksack (50 or 60 litres). If you do not have a duffel bag, we can provide one, allowing you to pack up to 9 kg (approx 20 lbs) of personal belongings each with your trekking partner.

Gear Provided If Needed

If you do not have your own major trekking gear, the following items can be provided:

  • Used, non-waterproof duffel bag
  • Used a down jacket
  • Used a sleeping bag

Important note: the provided duffel bag may be non-waterproof. Use dry bags, packing cubes, plastic liners, or Ziplock bags inside the duffle bag to protect clothing, electronics, sleeping gear, and documents.

If you already own high-quality gear, you may bring it for a better fit, comfort, and warmth.

What to Carry in Your Daypack?

Your daypack should contain all items needed during the walking day.

Recommended daypack size:

  • 30–40 litres is suitable for most trekkers

Carry these items in your daypack:

  • Water bottle or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets or a filter
  • Snacks or energy bars
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Warm layer
  • Sun hat
  • Beanie
  • Buff or neck gaiter
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Camera or smartphone
  • Power bank
  • Personal medicine
  • Small first aid kit
  • Toilet paper
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Passport copy
  • Cash
  • Trekking permits
  • Headlamp

A good daypack should have comfortable shoulder straps, a chest strap, a hip belt, side pockets, and a rain cover.

What to Pack in Your Duffle Bag?

Your duffel bag carries the items you do not need while walking.

Recommended duffle bag size:

  • 50-60 litres

Pack these items in your duffel bag:

  • Spare clothing
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping bag liner
  • A down jacket when not needed during the day
  • Extra socks
  • Lodge clothes
  • Camp shoes
  • Toiletries
  • Extra snacks
  • Spare batteries
  • Chargers
  • Dirty clothes bag
  • Laundry bag
  • Extra Ziplock bags

Use dry bags or packing cubes to separate:

  • Clean clothes
  • Dirty clothes
  • Sleeping clothes
  • Electronics
  • Toiletries
  • Shoes
  • Documents

Breadown of EBC Packing List

Let’s dive into each in detail.

1. Sun Hat

Pack a wide-brimmed sun hat or sun cap. The sun is strong at high altitude, even when the air feels cold.

Recommended features:

  • Wide brim
  • Lightweight fabric
  • Breathable material
  • Secure fit
  • Drawstring for windy conditions

A sun hat protects your face, ears, neck, and head from sunburn.

2. Beanie

A warm beanie is essential for cold mornings, evenings, sleeping, and high-altitude sections.

Recommended features:

  • Covers the ears
  • Warm and soft
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable under a jacket hood

3. Buff or Neck Gaiter

A buff or neck gaiter is one of the most useful items on the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Uses include:

  • Neck warmer
  • Face cover
  • Dust mask
  • Sun protection
  • Wind protection
  • Light head covering

A buff is especially useful above Dingboche, where the air can be dry, cold, and dusty.

4. Headlamp

Pack a lightweight headlamp with adjustable brightness.

Uses include:

  • Early morning starts
  • Night bathroom visits
  • Power cuts
  • Packing in dark rooms
  • Kala Patthar hike

Bring spare batteries or make sure the headlamp can be charged with your power bank.

5. High-SPF Sunscreen

Carry high-SPF sunscreen in your daypack. Apply it daily and reapply during the walking day.

Use sunscreen on:

  • Face
  • Nose
  • Ears
  • Neck
  • Hands
  • Any exposed skin

6. Lip Balm with SPF

Dry air, cold wind, and strong sun can quickly crack your lips. Keep SPF lip balm in your pocket or daypack.

7. Sunglasses with UV Protection

Pack sunglasses with strong UV protection. Category 3 or 4 sunglasses are suitable for high-altitude trekking.

Recommended features:

  • UV protection
  • Secure fit
  • Side coverage
  • Comfortable for long use
  • Spare pair if possible

8. Face Wipes

Face wipes help remove dust, sweat, and sunscreen at the end of the day. They are useful when showers are limited or expensive.

1. Moisture-Wicking T-Shirts

Pack both short-sleeve and long-sleeve trekking shirts.

Recommended quantity:

  • 2 short-sleeve moisture-wicking t-shirts
  • 2–3 long-sleeve moisture-wicking shirts

Long sleeves are useful for sun, dust, and wind protection. Short sleeves are useful at lower elevations and warmer parts of the trek.

Recommended materials:

  • Merino wool
  • Polyester
  • Nylon
  • Synthetic blends

Avoid cotton for trekking days because it absorbs sweat and dries slowly.

2. Thermal Base Layer

Pack thermal tops for cold weather and sleeping.

Recommended quantity:

  • 1–2 thermal base layer tops

A good base layer should be:

  • Moisture-wicking
  • Lightweight
  • Warm
  • Comfortable
  • Quick drying

3. Fleece Jacket

A fleece jacket works as a mid-layer Jacket

A fleece jacket works as a mid-layer.

Uses include:

  • Cool mornings
  • Rest stops
  • Tea house evenings
  • Layering under a down jacket or shell jacket

Choose a fleece that is warm but not too bulky.

4. Down Jacket

A down jacket is one of the most important warm items for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Uses include:

  • Cold mornings
  • Cold evenings
  • Tea house dining rooms
  • High-altitude villages
  • Gorak Shep and Base Camp areas

A down jacket should be warm, lightweight, and packable.

5. Lightweight Puffy Jacket

A lightweight puffy jacket can be used as an additional insulation layer. Some trekkers use it as their main warm jacket in mild seasons. In colder months, it can be combined with a heavier down jacket.

6. Waterproof and Windproof Jacket

A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential in all seasons. A Gore-Tex or similar breathable shell is ideal.

Recommended features:

  • Waterproof
  • Windproof
  • Breathable
  • Adjustable hood
  • Fits over fleece and down jacket
  • Lightweight and packable

Keep this jacket in your daypack every day.

7. Raincoat or Poncho

A raincoat or poncho gives extra rain protection. It is especially useful during monsoon or shoulder seasons.

If your waterproof jacket is strong and reliable, a separate raincoat may not be necessary. However, some trekkers prefer carrying one for extra coverage.

8. Lightweight Breathable Long-Sleeve Shirt

A lightweight long-sleeve shirt is useful for sun and dust protection during the day. It can be worn in warmer sections when a thermal layer is too warm.

Recommended features:

  • Lightweight
  • Breathable
  • Quick drying
  • Comfortable fit
  • Good sun coverage

9. Underwear and Sports Bras

Pack moisture-wicking underwear.

Recommended quantity:

  • 4–8 pairs of quick-drying underwear
  • Sports bras for women, if needed

Recommended features:

  • Breathable
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Quick drying
  • Comfortable for long walking days
  • Non-chafing

1. Liner Gloves

Liner gloves are thin gloves used in mild cold or under thicker gloves.

Useful for:

  • Taking photos
  • Using trekking poles
  • Tying shoelaces
  • Mild morning cold
  • Layering under waterproof gloves

2. Insulated Gloves or Mittens

Insulated gloves or mittens are needed for cold sections. Mittens are warmer, while gloves give better finger movement.

Use them during:

  • Cold mornings
  • High-altitude trekking days
  • Kala Patthar hike
  • Windy conditions
  • Winter trekking

3. Waterproof Gloves

Waterproof gloves protect your hands from rain, snow, wind, and wet conditions.

A practical glove system includes:

  • Thin liner gloves
  • Warm insulated gloves or mittens
  • Waterproof outer gloves or shell gloves

1. Quick-Drying Trekking Pants

Pack quick-drying trekking pants for daily walking.

Recommended quantity:

  • 1–2 pairs

Recommended features:

  • Lightweight
  • Flexible
  • Durable
  • Quick drying
  • Comfortable for uphill and downhill walking

Convertible pants are useful in warmer months. Full-length pants provide better sun, dust, and wind protection.

2. Thermal Leggings or Long Underwear

Pack thermal leggings for cold sections and sleeping.

Recommended quantity:

  • 1–2 pairs

Uses include:

  • Sleeping
  • Layering under trekking pants
  • Cold mornings
  • Higher altitude sections
  • Winter trekking

3. Insulated Pants

Insulated pants are useful for winter treks or trekkers who feel cold easily.

Use for:

  • Cold evenings
  • High-altitude lodges
  • Winter trekking
  • Early morning hikes

4. Waterproof Trousers

Waterproof trousers protect against rain, snow, and wind. They are especially useful in monsoon, winter, or sudden weather changes.

5. Lightweight Cotton Pants

Lightweight cotton pants can be used for tea house evenings, sleeping, or rest days.

Do not use cotton pants as your main trekking pants because cotton dries slowly and is not suitable for cold or wet trekking conditions.

6. Lodge Clothes

Pack a separate set of clean clothes for tea houses.

Recommended lodge clothes:

  • Comfortable trousers
  • Warm socks
  • Fleece or hoodie
  • Clean underwear
  • Sleeping shirt
  • Beanie for sleeping

Keeping lodge clothes separate from hiking clothes improves comfort and hygiene.

1. Hiking Boots

Pack waterproof, ankle-supportive, broken-in hiking boots with good traction.

Recommended features:

  • Waterproof or water-resistant
  • Ankle support
  • Good grip
  • Strong sole
  • Comfortable toe space
  • No pressure points
  • Already broken in

Do not wear new boots for the first time on the trek.

2. Trekking Socks

Pack thick wool or synthetic moisture-wicking socks.

Recommended quantity:

  • 4–6 pairs

Recommended features:

  • Warm
  • Cushioned
  • Moisture-wicking
  • Quick drying
  • Comfortable inside boots

Avoid cotton socks because they hold moisture and increase the risk of blisters.

3. Liner Socks

Liner socks reduce friction and help prevent blisters.

Recommended quantity:

  • 2 pairs

These are useful for trekkers who are prone to blisters.

4. Warm Sleeping Socks

Keep one clean pair of warm socks only for sleeping.

5. Camp Shoes or Sandals

Pack lightweight sandals, slippers, Crocs, or trail shoes for tea houses.

Uses include:

  • Resting after trekking
  • Bathroom visits
  • Walking inside lodges
  • Letting feet recover from boots

6. Gaiters

Gaiters protect boots and lower legs from mud, snow, dust, water, and debris.

Recommended for:

  • Winter
  • Monsoon
  • Snowy conditions
  • Muddy trails
  • Dusty sections

7. Microspikes

Microspikes are optional for the standard Everest Base Camp Trek during main seasons. They may be useful in winter, icy conditions, or if doing routes such as Three Passes or Gokyo with high pass crossings.

Confirm with your trekking company before packing microspikes.

1. Sleeping Bag

A warm sleeping bag is recommended for the Everest Base Camp Trek.

Recommended rating:

  • Around -10°C to -15°C for most treks
  • Warmer sleeping bag for winter or very cold months

Tea houses provide beds and blankets, but rooms are cold, especially above Dingboche.

2. Sleeping Bag Liner

A sleeping bag liner adds warmth and improves hygiene. It is especially useful if you are using a rented or provided sleeping bag.

Types include:

  • Silk liner
  • Fleece liner
  • Synthetic liner
  • Mummy-shaped liner for mummy sleeping bags

3. Pillowcase

Tea houses may provide pillows, but carrying your own pillowcase improves hygiene.

4. Earplugs

Tea house walls can be thin. Earplugs are useful for light sleepers.

Keep toiletries small and lightweight.

Pack:

  • Biodegradable bar soap
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Travel-sized shampoo
  • Medium quick-dry towel
  • Wet wipes
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper in Ziplock bag
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Nail clippers
  • Deodorant
  • Small mirror
  • Moisturizer or body lotion
  • Face cream
  • Eye drops if needed
  • Hair ties if needed
  • Razor if needed

1. Toilet Paper

Carry toilet paper in a Ziplock bag. Toilet paper may not be available in tea houses or trail toilets.

2. Wet Wipes

Wet wipes are useful when showers are not available or not practical.

3. Feminine Hygiene Products

Carry enough feminine hygiene products for the full trek. These may not be available in remote villages.

4. Moisturizer and Eye Drops

Cold, dry air can dry the skin and irritate the eyes. Moisturizer and lubricant eye drops are useful extras.

5. Biodegradable Bags

Carry small biodegradable bags or Ziplock bags for used tissues, toilet paper, or personal waste where proper disposal is not available.

Hydration is important at altitude.

Carry:

  • At least 2 liters of water capacity
  • Two 1-liter bottles or hydration bladder
  • Water purification tablets, filter, or UV purifier
  • Electrolyte sachets

1. Water Bottles

Nalgene-style bottles are useful because they can hold hot water. At night, hot water in a bottle can also be used inside the sleeping bag for warmth.

2. Hydration Bladder

A hydration bladder makes it easier to sip water regularly while walking. In very cold weather, the tube can freeze, so bottles may be easier.

3. Water Purification

Bring one of the following:

  • Water purification tablets
  • Water filter
  • UV purifier
  • SteriPen-style purifier

Bottled water becomes more expensive at higher altitude and creates plastic waste. A purification system is more practical and responsible.

Meals are usually available in tea houses, but snacks are helpful during walking days.

Pack:

  • Energy bars
  • Protein bars
  • Trail mix
  • Nuts
  • Chocolate
  • Sweets
  • Jerky
  • Electrolyte sachets
  • Instant coffee or tea sachets
  • Rehydration salts

Choose snacks that:

  • Do not break easily
  • Do not melt easily
  • Provide quick energy
  • Are lightweight
  • Are familiar to your stomach

Do not overpack snacks. Carry enough for energy support, but avoid unnecessary weight.

Carry a small personal first aid kit in your daypack.

Pack:

  • Band-aids
  • Blister plasters
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Antiseptic cream
  • Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol
  • Anti-diarrhea tablets
  • Rehydration salts
  • Throat lozenges
  • Cough and cold medicine
  • Medical tape
  • Anti-chafing balm or Vaseline
  • Personal prescriptions
  • Allergy medicine
  • Inhaler if needed
  • Eye drops if needed
  • Diamox only after doctor consultation

Important notes:

  • Consult a doctor before use
  • Do not use it as a replacement for acclimatization
  • Inform your guide about altitude symptoms
  • Descend if symptoms become serious

Warning signs that need attention include:

  • Severe headache
  • Vomiting
  • Confusion
  • Breathlessness at rest
  • Poor coordination
  • Extreme weakness

Charging is available in many tea houses, but it can cost extra and may become less reliable at higher altitude.

Pack:

  • Smartphone
  • Camera or GoPro
  • Extra memory cards
  • Extra batteries
  • Power bank
  • Charging cables
  • Two-pin charging plug
  • Universal adapter
  • Headlamp batteries
  • Solar charger optional
  • Waterproof pouch or dry bag

1. Power Bank

A high-capacity power bank is very useful. Keep it warm at night because cold reduces battery performance.

2. Adapter

Nepal uses different plug types, so carry a two-pin plug or universal adapter.

3. Camera Protection

The trail can be dusty. Keep camera gear in a pouch or dry bag.

Carry printed and digital copies of important documents.

Pack:

  • Passport
  • Passport photocopies
  • Nepal visa copy
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Trekking permits
  • Emergency contact details
  • Passport-size photos
  • Flight details
  • Hotel details
  • Cash in Nepali rupees
  • Credit card as backup

1. Passport

Your passport should be valid for at least six months from your Nepal entry date.

2. Travel Insurance

Your travel insurance should cover:

  • Trekking at high altitude
  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellation
  • Emergency helicopter evacuation
  • Rescue and air ambulance if applicable

3. Cash

Carry enough cash for personal expenses. ATMs may be limited or unreliable on the trail.

Cash may be needed for:

  • Hot drinks
  • Snacks
  • Hot showers
  • Wi-Fi
  • Charging
  • Tips
  • Toiletries
  • Emergency purchases

These items are not essential but can improve comfort.

  • Notebook and pen
  • Playing cards
  • Small book or Kindle
  • Binoculars
  • Travel pillow
  • Small repair kit
  • Safety whistle
  • Spare boot laces
  • Duct tape or gaffer tape
  • String or clothesline
  • Swiss army knife or multi-tool
  • Small lock for duffle bag
  • Garbage bags
  • Extra Ziplock bags

Important: Pack knives or multi-tools in checked luggage, not hand luggage.

Renting or Buying Gear in Kathmandu

Kathmandu, especially Thamel, has many trekking shops where gear can be rented or bought.

Common rental items:

  • Sleeping bag
  • Down jacket
  • Trekking poles
  • Duffle bag
  • Daypack
  • Gaiters
  • Microspikes

Items better brought from home:

  • Hiking boots
  • Socks
  • Underwear
  • Base layers
  • Personal medicine
  • Sunglasses if you need reliable UV protection
  • Prescription items

Buying Gear in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is useful for affordable gear, but quality varies. Check every item carefully before buying or renting.

Inspect:

  • Zippers
  • Stitching
  • Straps
  • Buckles
  • Waterproofing
  • Warmth rating
  • Fabric quality

Avoid buying hiking boots immediately before the trek. Boots must be broken in before walking long distances.

Laundry on the Everest Base Camp Trek

Laundry is limited on the trail. Some lodges in Namche Bazaar and Dingboche may offer laundry, but this is not guaranteed.

Important notes:

  • Clothes may not dry quickly in cold tea house rooms
  • Hanging clothes outside can make them dusty
  • Washing is easier during rest days
  • Bring enough socks and underwear
  • Keep clean lodge clothes separate

Use dry bags or Ziplock bags for dirty clothes.

Seasonal Packing Guide

Spring: March, April, May

Spring has warmer days but cold mornings and nights.

Pack:

  • Moisture-wicking shirts
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Sun hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Buff
  • Warm gloves
  • Sleeping bag

Rain or snow is still possible, so rain gear is necessary.

Autumn: September, October, November

Autumn usually has stable weather, but mornings and evenings can be cold.

Pack:

  • Warm base layers
  • Fleece jacket
  • Down jacket
  • Windproof jacket
  • Beanie
  • Gloves
  • Buff
  • Sunglasses
  • Warm sleeping bag

Late October and November require warmer layers.

Winter: December, January, February

Winter is colder and requires extra insulation.

Add:

  • Warmer sleeping bag
  • Extra thermal base layer
  • Warmer down jacket
  • Insulated pants
  • Thicker gloves or mittens
  • Extra warm socks
  • Gaiters
  • Microspikes if advised

Monsoon: June, July, August

Monsoon requires stronger rain and waterproof protection.

Add:

  • Raincoat or poncho
  • Waterproof trousers
  • Extra dry bags
  • Rain cover
  • Gaiters
  • Extra socks
  • Quick-drying clothing
  • Waterproof document pouch
  • Insect repellent if needed

What Not to Pack

Avoid unnecessary weight.

Do not pack:

  • Heavy jeans
  • Cotton clothes for trekking
  • Large shampoo bottles
  • Heavy laptop
  • Expensive jewelry
  • Too many shoes
  • Too many snacks
  • Large towel
  • Heavy books
  • Glass bottles
  • Bulky fashion clothes
  • Expedition climbing gear
  • Oxygen canisters
  • Duplicate items already provided by your trekking company

Common Packing Mistakes

  • Packing Too Many Clothes: You do not need a new outfit every day. Layering and reusing clothes is normal on the trek.
  • Wearing New Boots: New boots can cause blisters. Break in your boots before arriving in Nepal.
  • Forgetting Sun Protection: High-altitude sun can burn skin and lips even in cold weather.
  • Carrying Too Many Electronics: Charging is limited and may cost extra. Keep electronics simple.
  • Not Separating Daypack and Duffle Items: Daily essentials should always stay in your daypack.
  • Not Waterproofing Items: Use dry bags or Ziplock bags for electronics, documents, sleeping clothes, and toiletries.
  • Depending on Trail Shops: Namche Bazaar has supplies, but after Namche options become limited and more expensive.

FAQs

What is included in the Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List?

The Everest Base Camp Trek Packing List includes headwear, upper body clothing, gloves, trekking pants, hiking boots, socks, toiletries, sleeping bag, daypack, duffle bag, trekking poles, water purification, first aid supplies, documents, snacks, electronics, and seasonal trekking items.

What size daypack is best for Everest Base Camp Trek?

A 30–40 liter daypack is suitable for most trekkers. It should carry water, snacks, rain gear, warm layer, medicine, documents, sunscreen, camera, and valuables.

What size duffle bag is needed?

A 70–90 liter duffle bag is suitable for most trekkers using a porter. Keep the weight within your trekking company’s limit.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

Yes. A sleeping bag rated around -10°C to -15°C is recommended. Tea house blankets may not be enough at higher altitude.

Is a sleeping bag liner necessary?

A liner is recommended, especially if using a rented or provided sleeping bag. It adds warmth and improves hygiene.

Do I need a down jacket?

Yes. A down jacket or warm insulated jacket is important for cold mornings, evenings, and high-altitude villages.

Can I use the provided down jacket and sleeping bag?

Yes. A used down jacket and used sleeping bag can be provided if you do not have your own. You may bring your own if you prefer personal gear.

What footwear is best?

Waterproof, ankle-supportive, broken-in hiking boots are best. Also bring camp shoes or sandals for tea houses.

How many socks should I bring?

Bring 4–6 pairs of wool or synthetic trekking socks. Add liner socks if you are prone to blisters and one warm pair for sleeping.

Should I bring trekking poles?

Yes, trekking poles are recommended. They improve balance and reduce knee strain, especially on descents.

Do I need microspikes?

Microspikes are usually not required during the main spring and autumn seasons, but they may be useful in winter, icy conditions, or high pass routes.

Can I buy or rent gear in Kathmandu?

Yes. Kathmandu has many gear shops, especially in Thamel. You can rent sleeping bags, down jackets, poles, and other items. Buy personal items such as boots, socks, underwear, and medicines before the trek.

What should I carry in my daypack?

Carry water, snacks, a rain jacket, a warm layer, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses, medicine, first aid, documents, cash, phone, camera, power bank, and toilet paper.

Should I bring water purification?

Yes. Carry purification tablets, a filter, or a UV purifier. Bottled water is expensive at higher altitude and creates plastic waste.

Is laundry available on the trek?

Laundry may be available in Namche Bazaar or Dingboche, but it is not guaranteed. Clothes dry slowly in cold tea houses, so pack enough socks and underwear.

What should women pack?

Women should pack the same core trekking gear plus sports bras, feminine hygiene products, disposal bags, wet wipes, and any personal medicines.

What should I avoid packing?

Avoid jeans, cotton trekking clothes, heavy laptops, too many shoes, large toiletries, heavy books, expensive jewelry, and technical climbing gear.

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